The Blue Bench aims to create a safe space within our community where we can come together to heal and put an end to sexual violence. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment that is warm and welcoming and treats survivors of sexual assault, their loved ones, our prevention partners, and all community stakeholders with dignity and full respect of race, class, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, immigration status, ability, age, type of work/employment status, or religious affiliation.
Despite the foundational role Black women played in the movement to end sexual violence, the movement has often prioritized the needs of those with the most power to the detriment of marginalized groups and those with less power. As an organization, The Blue Bench is dedicated to the ongoing work of undoing this harm and ensuring that we continually meet our commitment of creating a safe, inclusive, and welcoming space.
These activities include:
- Forming a Diversity, Equity and Inclusivity committee to provide important leadership for the organization as we deepen our commitment to being responsive to community needs and as we envision a path forward in incorporating anti-racist action and anti-oppressive practices into the work we do.
- Evaluating our staff hiring practices and leadership opportunities within the organization to continue building a team with diverse lived experiences and identities.
- Building upon our evaluation of The Blue Bench’s programs, curriculum, outreach strategies and communications to improve access to culturally responsive services.
- Additionally, we have sought the services of Creative Strategies for Change to help guide our work.
If you have questions, concerns, or suggestions, please fill out the following form.
